Keep it Simple, Keep it Personal (77)

I have been inundated with free upgrades and try our service for 1/2 off adds. There are so many new technology tools being thrown at us, as educators. Can you blame them? This shift is unprecedented. Teachers who have never delivered on-line content, are now in stress mode. There are so many options. The problem is- our students need access to them. Some students have no Internet, some have limited.

We could try to be super innovative and present the curriculum in a new way- an exciting and unique platform, but is that wise? Students are worried about their grades, about getting behind, about having to learn in a new way. Do we want to add to it? But, do we want to keep them engaged and active as well? How can we balance the new technology with the ease and comfort of routine, when we are distancing away from them?

Simple does not mean boring. Personal is anything but distance? We need to bring the two together. Create a system where every student can still feel a part of the classroom and yet, independent and secure in their new adventure. This is not a setback, but an opportunity to shine. For educators to step out of their pre-packaged, early planned lessons and revamp. Dust off some great ideas, you felt you didn't have time for before.

Now is the time to try something new, within reason. Use the format of familiarity with an edge. Make sure your students hear from you via email or on-line platform, this will reassure them you are still focused on their learning. Then ease in with a few fun activities. Then provide many options and creative ways for them to learn: podcasts, blogs, vodcasts/mini-videos. Let them get problem-solving. Ask- What do you have in your kitchen that can explain this...?

Keep it light and funny. I plan on not focusing on the virus or what changes to society it is bringing. But rather, focusing on mindfulness and some science. Merging the two. This they are used to. Keep the familiar, integrate some nuance. But, they need a strong voice, a familiar voice to guide them academically. Some students may be isolated or quarantined and feel very alone. We need to make sure they know they aren't. This distance won't last forever.

I teach three levels: academic, pre-ap and gifted/talented. Who do you think is emailing me about grades and assignments? Yes, GT students. I am easing their apprehension by telling them I have a plan. We will use the same platform- Canvas and the same style assignments- Discussions and Web-Quests. They will know what to do when our distance learning begins.

The uncertainty is affecting them more than we know. Children pick up on our fears. It is important to reassure them and stay light and humorous, especially if that is what they are used to. Stay true to yourself- they are relying on it. Keep lessons stream-lined and simple. But- creative and thought-provoking. The more we can engage them in learning, the less focused on the uncertainty they will be.